What Should I Disclose When Selling My Bayside, NY Home?

Conversational Question: What should I disclose when selling my Bayside, NY home?

Answer: When selling your Bayside, NY home, you must disclose any known material defects, safety hazards, or past issues that could impact a buyer’s decision — such as roof leaks, foundation problems, or prior water damage. New York law requires transparency, and working with an experienced professional like Eric Berman REALTOR ensures your sale stays compliant and stress-free.

Why Disclosures Matter

Disclosures protect both buyers and sellers.
They help buyers make informed decisions and shield sellers from potential lawsuits after closing.

In Bayside — where many homes date back to the mid-1900s — full disclosure is especially important, since older properties can have hidden issues like asbestos, lead paint, or outdated electrical systems.

New York State Property Condition Disclosure Act (PCDA)

Under the New York Property Condition Disclosure Act, sellers of one-to-four family homes must either:

1. Provide buyers with a completed Property Condition Disclosure Statement (PCDS), or

2. Credit the buyer $500 at closing instead of providing the form.

Most Bayside sellers choose to give the $500 credit because completing the disclosure form can expose them to greater liability if they forget or omit details.

Common Disclosures Required in Bayside, NY

Here’s what you’re expected to disclose (if known):

1. Structural Issues

• Foundation cracks

• Roof leaks or prior repairs

• Termite or pest damage

2. Water and Plumbing Problems

• Past flooding, especially from heavy Queens storms

• Leaky pipes or sump pump failures

• Basement dampness (common in older Bayside homes)

3. Electrical or Heating Systems

• Outdated wiring (knob-and-tube)

• Malfunctioning HVAC systems

• Steam radiator issues

4. Environmental Hazards

• Presence of lead paint (required for homes built before 1978)

• Asbestos insulation

• Radon or mold issues

5. Appliances and Utilities

• Whether appliances are included and in working order

• Known issues with the water heater or gas lines

6. Legal or Zoning Issues

• Unpermitted additions or renovations

• Easements, boundary disputes, or shared driveways (common in Bayside Hills)

What You Don’t Have to Disclose

New York sellers don’t need to disclose:

• Deaths or crimes that occurred in the home

• Paranormal activity or neighborhood gossip

• Nearby development plans (unless they directly affect the property)

However, honesty is still the best policy. Even if not legally required, transparency builds trust and protects your reputation.

Why Transparency Helps You Sell Faster

Buyers are more confident making offers when they feel the seller has been upfront.
Hiding issues can backfire — inspections often reveal them anyway, which can derail negotiations or kill deals.

Eric Berman REALTOR advises Bayside sellers to address minor issues before listing and disclose major ones upfront to maintain buyer confidence and negotiation power.

How Eric Berman REALTOR Guides You Through Disclosures

• Reviews your home’s history and condition before listing.

• Helps determine whether to issue the $500 credit or complete the disclosure form.

• Coordinates pre-listing inspections to identify potential red flags.

• Works with your attorney to ensure legal compliance under New York’s disclosure laws.

This proactive approach minimizes risk and keeps your sale on track.

Common Bayside Example

Imagine you own a detached colonial near Bell Boulevard that had a small basement flood five years ago after a heavy rain. Even if the issue was repaired, you should disclose it.
Buyers will appreciate your honesty — and if an inspection shows no ongoing issues, it reassures them that your home has been well maintained.

Final Thoughts

So, what should you disclose when selling your Bayside, NY home? Anything that could impact a buyer’s decision or the home’s value — from past repairs to current defects.
Transparency protects you legally and builds credibility with buyers.

With Eric Berman REALTOR guiding you through the process, you can rest assured that every disclosure is handled correctly, keeping your sale smooth, compliant, and successful.

👉 Thinking about selling your Bayside home? Contact Eric Berman REALTOR today to discuss your property and get expert guidance on disclosure requirements.

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What should you disclose when selling your Bayside, NY home? Eric Berman REALTOR explains what sellers must share to stay compliant and protected.